Materials, memory and responsibility: the luthier's trade

Following David Irving's lecture, this round table brings the reflection on globalisation into the realm of contemporary practice. Luthiers from all over the country will discuss the trade today: the origin of materials, inherited knowledge, sustainable alternatives and critical responsibility in the face of histories of extractivism and exploitation. How is an instrument built in the 21st century? What material and ethical choices are involved? A space for dialogue to connect thought and practice, tradition and transformation.

Activity promoted by Difraccions
With the participation of Magalí Monràs i Erra, Daniel Guisado, Joan Roca and Robert Martínez

Magalí Monràs i Erra, lover of craftsmanship and music, finds in string instrument making a splendid combination with which to navigate the creative magic of musical instruments. Connected to the historical reproduction of plucked and bowed stringed instruments, it opens the doors to the range of possibilities that today's world offers, keeping as a guide the desire for a living, transforming, playful and expansive music.

Robert Martínez is a multidisciplinary artist specialising in sound experimentation. He has been part of projects such as Muzak and Kvasar, and develops his own initiatives such as Zónula and USNEA, focused on improvisation and research in acoustic resonance and electroacoustics. He is the founder of Mutan Monkey Instruments (2015) and the Mutan Lab Sound Association. He has participated in festivals such as Sónar and Ensems and gives workshops in schools, universities and cultural spaces.